UK weather: Rivers burst their banks and train stations are left underwater

Up to 56,000 homes remained without power today as Britain suffered its third storm in less than a week with rail commuters told to avoid travelling following severe flooding, landslides and evacuations amid 87mph winds.

Storm Franklin swept in overnight with a Met Office yellow wind warning in place for England, Wales, Northern Ireland and western Scotland until 1pm this afternoon as electricity engineers battle to reconnect properties.

More than 450 flood alerts or warnings were in place across the UK, including two severe warnings in south Manchester that prompted more than 400 homes to be evacuated – while Northern Ireland was also badly hit.

Train operators again warned customers to ‘avoid travel if possible’ today with services paralysed by gale-force winds and lashing rain…